What if you had to replace your R1200ST?

[Missouri Bob]

I've had my ST for about 20 months, and I like it better than any other bike I've owned. That lead me to think about what I would do if it was irreversibly damaged. I cannot think of anything else on the market (other than a used ST) that pulls all the same strings for me.

 

What would you buy, and why?

 

Thanks.

 

Bob

[russell_bynum]

I don't own an ST, but we have an R1100RS (the predecessor to the ST), and I've ridden an R1200ST....

 

I'd look at the ST4S and the Sprint. After that it would be the VFR.

[CraigT]

I's go with Russels response. I have ridden both the ST4S and the Sprint ST, Duke was real nice with excelent handling, but it lacked the ST feel and a drop on one of these can prove extrmeely costly. (I've dropped my ST three times).

Triumph was sheer excellence. Loved the engine and the handling and can easily see why it's a Nr1 seller in the UK, but... the seat is very limited and would neat an aftermarket version right away, but otherwise very nice all round, loved it.

 

The VFR has had that much bad press about the VTECH system, that I have succumbed and would not bother, besides I found the Triumph to be very very nice and may even one day make way for one.

 

Me, replace the ST? Only with another one, or a used one with Ohlins, Remus, Power commander and good seat being added each time I think I'd like to change it. At present mine has 39k miles and runs standard. Rather than chop it in for the new R1200S, I may consider keeping it and adding a few of the above goodies. Either that or I'll have to give in and get bloody double glazing and a monoblock driveway!

[sardineone]

I cannot think of anything else on the market (other than a used ST) that pulls all the same strings for me.

 

+1

 

I too have contemplated the demise of my ST and what would I replace it with. I'd reluctantly settle for a new Guzzi Norge or Triumph Sprint if a good R12ST wasn't available.

[bakerzdosen]

My list of bikes to look at off the top of my head (somewhat in order):

 

1) Phil's ST.

2) Any other used one

3) ST3 (Chain is one reason why I don't have one instead of an ST, but I'm less opposed to it now.)

4) R12GS

5) K12GT

5) Sprint ST

7) VFR (Never really seen one, but I'd at least consider one since people love 'em so much)

8) Connie (still have to get a lot of aftermarket stuff and its just too big)

8) K12S

8) R12RT

11) FJR (have to lower the bars though)

12) Tiger

13) XB12x

 

My problem is that I just don't like the "sit-up-and-beg" riding position now that I've learned how to ride the ST properly. It's more comfy for me.

 

I also like the weight. I don't want to go too much heavier.

 

My other problem is, other than BMW's, it's hard to find high mileage bikes to see if the engines will really run 100k miles or more. You just don't see 150,000+ mile Ducati's and Triumph's out there very often. I like being able to do the maintenance as well, so for that reason, I like the ST3 (though it's more difficult than the boxer for sure.)

 

You know, just off the top of my head.

 

Edit: The numbers on the ST3 are similar to an r12st. The ST4s is much more difficult to work on and I've read bad things about the engine over the long term, so that's why I personally wouldn't consider an ST4s.

[R4ND0M_AX3]

HP2 Sport (I'd only miss the hard bags the ST offers)

1098

1125R

Something supermoto like a husky 610 or sump'in.

 

I'll have a better idea after the IMS.

[sardineone]

I don't want to go too much heavier

 

I'm in that same boat. Many of the reasons I went to BMW are the reason we need a BMW to replace our ST's in the future. My ST's handling, overall capabilities & moderate weight still are benchmarks against the competition. I've thought a bit and the BMW to replace my beloved ST could be an improved new ST with the HP2 Sport motor. Make it even lighter than the present ST with quality suspension and a comfortable seat this time. BMW could at least match the new Guzzi seats for Christ's sake!

I also still like distinctive & sporty style with a bit more handle bar adjustment range this time(K-GT style). Sorry the RT's style doesn't really inspire me even though I know it works very well.

[Ben_Ricci]

Provocative question. I’m sure a lot of ST owners have given this thought. I know I have.

 

Since acquiring my ST last September I’ve had some time to sort out more concisely what type of riding I actually do. I intended to do more two-up regional touring, some local “sport riding,” and a decent amount of commuting. Two-up capability was one of my important pre-purchase considerations. Turns out in the 11,000 miles I logged last year (about 9,300 on the R12ST and another 2,000 on our F800ST) I did mostly commuting and solo sport riding. I love my ST, and only wish that is was more mechanically reliable as it spent many weeks in the shop for maintenance items including engine and transmission seals. I always wanted an R1100RS and the ST became (for me) its natural successor.

 

If I lost my ST, and BMW didn't have a worthy successor, I would probably first look at the F800S and the Buell R1125R. A close second to those two would be the R1200S.

 

Other bikes that pop to mind as “replacements:”

 

1. F800S or Buell R1125R

2. R1200S or KTM 990 Super Duke

3. Triumph Daytona 675 or KTM 690 Duke

 

Over bikes I’d want to look at: Triumph Sprint ST, Moto Guzzi Norge.

[Paul Mihalka]

Over bikes I’d want to look at: Triumph Sprint ST, Moto Guzzi Norge.

Check the thread on Moto-Guzzi oil/filter change

[Twisties]

I'm surprised ya'll aren't more attracted to the K1200GT. Having test ridden one, and having sat on Matt's (bakerzdosen) ST, my recollection is that the riding positions are quite similar. The K bike weighs more, but you'd never know it riding it. With that engine in it, it feels like a jet propelled feather on the road. Maybe you think it's too much protection for you. It is significantly less than the RT, the windshield is cut lower and the side fairings are a bit more spare.

 

Of course being on the sportier side of the of the boxer line-up does give you many more options than those of us sitting up and begging. All of the non-BMW competitors it seems are more towards the sporty ergos.

 

I just sat on a GS (the F650) for the first time and found it even more upright than the RT. Almost cruiser like (except the feet are a little back) I don't think you guys are going to like GS's.

 

Well, my best wishes for never having to make this decision, enjoy those ST's.

 

See ya on the road!

 

Jan

[HexHead]

Off the top of my head, I'd seriously consider the K1200R Sport.

[Ben_Ricci]

Over bikes I’d want to look at: Triumph Sprint ST, Moto Guzzi Norge.

Check the thread on Moto-Guzzi oil/filter change

 

I saw it. And we all think BMW dealers are few and far between. I'll stick with my R12ST.

 

The Norge resembles an R12ST in a many ways, though:

 

Looks like the centerstand could get a lot of wear too.

 

[jaytee]

Having only had my ST for 3200 miles so far, I cant imagine a different bike for me at this time... but I would consider the K1200RS, the aprilia Tuono, the R1200S(if I could ever figure out luggage). The Norge, while a pretty bike, does nothing for me where HP/weight are concerned. Honestly, the ST is about entry level power for me: not because I am some super-skilled rider, but because I am a muscle-car driver at heart.

 

JT

[Firefight911]

As soon as someone buys my ST, I'll be happy to answer that question for ya!!

 

Matt, "off the top of my head" and you come up with 13 bikes!!!!! Walk away!!!! Just walk away!!! You should stop at your #1 choice!!

[bmwk100]

To make you guys feel good, if I did not own a Sprint ST, I would want a R12ST. Very similar bikes and both are excellent bikes.

[HexST]

If you are a one up rider an R1200S is what I would get. After riding one for almost 1500 miles in Europe I was quite impressed and the stock seating position is not that far off from the ST.I could make do with the smaller bags but the engine on the S is great. That 500 more RPM and added horsepower makes a bigger difference than you would think.The K1200GT was just too heavy for me when I rode a friends in the mountains last year.In fact he got rid of his after riding my ST.

[kopov260]

I'd move on to K1200R Sport. In fact I am considering it now since BMW just announced such a great deal on them. Most likely I'd keep the ST anyway.

[Mike]

What would you buy, and why?

 

I always start plotting my next car or motorcycle purchase within about a mile after I leave the showroom, but I'm pretty content with my ST. I'd give serious consideration to a K1200RS or K1200GT, but the ST pretty well balances all the things that are important to me. Most of the other bikes I'd consider are either heavier, lacking in luggage capacity, or just not as pretty as the ST.